How do I tell Turbotax to use my refund to purchase series I bond (form 8888, line 35a of form 1040)?

[kdwest2884]

Using Turbotax Deluxe, installed on my computer (not on-line), tax year 2021.

[DanP0428]

When you file, the system will ask how you want to receive your refund.  If that option is available to you it will come up then.

[kdwest2884]

Not in my copy of Turbotax.  No such option offered when I get to File.  But thank you for the suggestion.

[DoninGA]

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@kdwest2884 wrote:

Not in my copy of Turbotax.  No such option offered when I get to File.  But thank you for the suggestion.

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The option is available in the online editions but on the desktop CD/Download editions.

[Cool Bill]

That's incorrect as I download the Basic Edition and it appeared when it asked if you want to split your refund.

[DanP0428]

Think you meant not available in online @DoninGA 

[kdwest2884]

Thanks to all of you for the help!  Sounds like I missed my opportunity the first time through.  I have tried to backtrack, working my way from deductions forward.  But Turbotax does not give me the option of form 8888.  I have also tried going to forms, but it does not allow me to click the box that says form 8888 attached.  Any suggestions about how I undo what I guess was my initial mistake of not taking up the option to purchase series I bond with my refund?

[aybiz]

Turbo Tax Premier CD ROM Version. I do not see the screen that asks how to split the refund. Actually, I looked for that screen last year as well but did not see it either.  There is no form 8888 in the form menu.  Is there a workaround anyone knows of? Thanks

Edit: Never mind.  It is IN FINE PRINTS at the bottom of the screen that says "How do you want your $xxxx federal refund. 🙂

[VolvoGirl]

@aybiz  And what does the fine print say?  Can you post a screenshot (coverup any Personal Info)?

[kdwest2884]

OP here.  I would appreciate seeing the screenshot also.  I can change the amount that I want refunded (Other taxes / apply refund to next year).  But even after changing the amount refunded, Turbotax still doesnt give me an option to put some of the refunded amount into a savings bond.

[aybiz · Accepted solution]

@VolvoGirl @kdwest2884  this webpage has the screenshot and detailed instructions

https://thefinancebuff.com/overpay-taxes-buy-i-bonds-better-than-tips.html#:~:text=When%20TurboTax%2....

[kdwest2884]

Thanks!  I see you have to wait until you choose E-file, then you have the option to put part of refund to series I.  I was assuming the choice must be at some earlier point.  Thanks for pointing me to that web page.

[VolvoGirl]

@aybiz   That link is not a screen shot from the actual Turbo Tax program, except for the first screenshot where to enter an extension.    But good if you found it in your program.